Best Wedding Venues in Lancashire

Looking for the perfect Lancashire wedding venue? I’ve photographed weddings all over the county for years, from grand manor houses in the Ribble Valley to rustic barns, boutique hotels and some properly quirky places in between. This is my honest pick of the best, based on what it’s actually like to work (and celebrate) in them.

In a nutshell

Lancashire offers a wide range of wedding venues, including historic manor houses, rustic barns, idyllic outdoor locations, boutique hotels, family-run venues, and quirky, unconventional spaces, each providing a unique wedding setting.
Venues like Eaves Hall, Samlesbury Hall, Wennington Hall, Bashall Barn, and The Wellbeing Farm offer diverse atmospheres and capacities, from intimate ceremonies to large-scale celebrations, with dedicated teams to tailor the wedding experience.
When selecting a venue, couples should consider visiting at the same time of year as their planned wedding to assess lighting conditions and discuss flexibility regarding photography spaces and timings with the venue.

Which of Lancashire’s Manor Houses Make the Best Wedding Venues?

A stately red-brick mansion with white stone accents under a clear blue sky. The building features large windows, decorative columns at the entryway, and is surrounded by trees and manicured shrubs. The photo is taken with a tree in the foreground. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Lancashire does manor houses brilliantly: historic estates full of character, with the kind of grandeur that makes a wedding feel like an occasion. Here are three I know well: Eaves Hall, Samlesbury Hall and Knowsley Hall.

A bride and groom stroll hand-in-hand across the lawn of an elegant manor house with red brick walls and numerous windows. The bride is in a white gown holding a bouquet, and the groom is in a black tuxedo. A large tree and a blue sky with clouds are in the background. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Eaves Hall

Eaves Hall sits right in the heart of the Ribble Valley, a grand Georgian mansion with real presence. I’ve photographed a lot of weddings here and it never gets old: the ceremony room floods with light, and the whole place has a relaxed, house-party feel once the drinks start flowing.

There’s an on-site bar, a lounge looking out over the gardens and even a snooker room, with the terrace and bowling green beyond. I know all the pathways around the garden and exactly where the sun falls in the evening, which is why the portraits here always come out so well.

A couple, dressed in wedding attire, stands in front of a historic, black-and-white half-timbered building adorned with a pattern of white crosses. The lush green lawn and trees create a picturesque scene, perfect for capturing by a Lancashire wedding photographer. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Samlesbury Hall

At Samlesbury Hall, history and charm go hand in hand. The 700-year-old Great Hall is a brilliant space for a wedding breakfast, and the 15th-century Whittaker Room, once a chapel, makes a genuinely atmospheric ceremony setting.

The team here are a big part of what makes it work: they look after couples properly, and the chefs will build a menu around what you actually want. I’ve photographed weddings at Samlesbury and the day always runs smoothly.

A bride and groom stand at the altar in an ornate, gold-themed room with high ceilings and large windows. Guests are seated in rows facing the couple, while a Lancashire wedding photographer captures every moment. The room is adorned with floral arrangements and elegant drapery, creating a luxurious ambiance. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Knowsley Hall

Knowsley Hall is the ancestral home of the Stanley family, the Earls of Derby, and despite the stately grandeur, you can hire the hall and grounds exclusively for your wedding.

Accommodating up to 132 guests within the Hall for the ceremony, wedding breakfast and party in the evening.
Exclusive use of the magical grounds within the estate. No other events are held on any wedding day.
The option for guests to stay over night and fill one of 17 award-winning bedrooms.

The Knowsley team offer proper wedding planning support and a long list of trusted suppliers. They host fewer weddings than most venues, which means your day gets their full attention. I’ve shot here and the setting, from the state rooms to the gardens, is something special.

Which Barn Venues in Lancashire Offer the Most Charm?

A wedding ceremony is taking place in a rustic barn with exposed wooden beams adorned with string lights. The photographer captures guests seated in rows facing the altar, where the couple stands under a lit canopy. The atmosphere is beautifully illuminated with purple and warm-toned lighting. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Barn venues suit couples who want rustic charm without giving up comfort, and Lancashire has some crackers. Here are three worth a serious look: Bashall Barn, Browsholme Hall and the Tithe Barn, and Rivington Hall Barn.

Each has its own character, so here’s what you need to know.

A wedding reception hall in one of the finest wedding venues in Lancashire is decorated with white and beige bunting and fairy lights. Large round tables adorned with white tablecloths, elegant tableware, flowers, and candles are set up. Twinkling chandeliers hang from the draped ceiling. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Bashall Barn

Bashall Barn gives you exclusive use for the whole day and evening, so there’s no sharing your wedding with strangers. The highlights:

A stunning outdoor terrace with glass fencing allows for unobstructed views of the beautiful Lancashire countryside
Accommodation for between 50-130 seated guests for ceremonies and wedding breakfasts
Accommodation for up to 200 guests for evening receptions

That makes it a versatile choice whatever the size of your wedding.

Exclusive use means you can genuinely make the space your own, and the views over the Lancashire countryside towards Pendle Hill are hard to beat. I’ve photographed weddings here and the atmosphere is always fantastic.

A bride and groom share a kiss at the altar of a rustic, stone-walled Lancashire wedding venue adorned with greenery and string lights. Guests are seated on either side, with some taking photos. A flower girl and other attendants in formal attire are present. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Browsholme Hall & Tithe Barn

Browsholme Hall and the Tithe Barn gives you options: the gorgeous Tithe Barn itself, plus exclusive access to the Hall and Gardens, the oldest family home in Lancashire still in the same family’s hands. The barn keeps that traditional feel with uninterrupted views across the grounds.

It works for all sorts of wedding styles and sizes, and the mix of rustic charm and elegance gives the day a magical feel. I love shooting here; the grounds alone are worth the visit.

A newlywed couple walks down the aisle inside a rustic, wooden-beamed wedding venue in Lancashire adorned with flowers and drapery. The bride wears a white gown and the groom a dark suit. Guests on both sides stand, clap, and smile. Floral arrangements in tall vases line the aisle. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Rivington Hall Barn

Rivington Hall Barn dates back to the 18th century and sits right under Rivington Pike. Rustic beams, loads of character, and a setting that feels properly Lancashire.

A few more reasons couples love it:

The main barn being able to hold 200+ guests for a large evening party.
An outdoor patio with heaters for cooler evenings and the option for a first dance outside when warm.
Gorgeously large and recently refurbished bridal preparation rooms in the main house.

The on-site coordinator and the team keep everything running seamlessly from ceremony to first dance. One of my favourite spots: at sunset there’s a beautiful straight road nearby with amazing symmetry, and it makes for stunning portraits.

Countryside Gems: Idyllic Outdoor Wedding Locations

A beautifully decorated outdoor wedding setup with rows of chairs adorned with colorful ribbons, vibrant plants along the aisle, and a historic stone pavilion in the background. The pavilion is festively adorned with multicolored pennant flags. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

If you dream of saying your vows surrounded by nature, Lancashire has some idyllic outdoor options. Here are three: Brockholes Nature Reserve, The River Barn, and Avenham and Miller Parks.

Each offers something a bit different from the usual venue experience.

A couple dressed in wedding attire stands on a wooden pier by a calm, reflective lake in one of Lancashire's charming wedding venues, surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky. The bride holds a bouquet, and the groom stands beside her, both facing each other. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Brockholes Nature Reserve

Brockholes Nature Reserve offers a serene, picture-perfect setting, with the famous floating village on the lake. It’s a nature reserve first, which gives the whole day a calm, outdoorsy feel.

The woodland ceremony area is a genuinely memorable spot for your vows, and the lakeside views give you something no traditional venue can. One for couples who love the outdoors.

Bride and groom walking by elegant estate garden.

The River Barn

The River Barn sits beside the River Wyre with five acres of grounds, including:

a tree-lined driveway
protected woodland
walled gardens
numerous photogenic spots

All of which makes it a dream for photography. In April the field at the back is full of bluebells, which makes for really beautiful portraits. I’ve shot here and it’s one of those venues where you never run out of backdrops.

There’s a great Party Room, beautifully kept gardens and a lovely outdoor terrace for guests. Whether you’re planning something intimate or a bigger celebration, it works, and the riverside setting keeps everything feeling tranquil.

Avenham and Miller Parks

Avenham and Miller Parks are adjoining parks in the heart of Preston, with landscaped gardens and views over the River Ribble. A ceremony here feels a world away from the city around it.

The Japanese Garden is a favourite spot for ceremonies and photos, and the parks as a whole are a lovely option for couples after something outdoorsy and a little different.

Boutique Hotels: Stylish and Intimate Wedding Venues

If you want luxury with a more intimate feel, Lancashire’s boutique hotels are worth a look. Personal service, flexibility and beautiful settings, all under one roof.

Here are three I know well: Mitton Hall, Bartle Hall and Crow Wood Hotel & Spa.

Mitton Hall

Mitton Hall is one of my favourite venues in Lancashire, full stop. A stunning manor house on the banks of the Ribble, mixing historic architecture with contemporary style, and space for up to 165 guests.

I always make use of both the front and back of the house here: the gardens at the back catch the sun beautifully in the evening, and the river setting gives you portraits you just can’t get anywhere else.

Bartle Hall Hotel

Bartle Hall blends traditional charm with modern elegance, set in 16 acres of grounds near Preston. The setup:

16 acres of gorgeous grounds in which to spend your special day.
The separate Coaching Barn to host your wedding breakfast and evening celebrations.
The Country House hosts the civil ceremony and includes a choice of 4 Bridal Suites.
The Thicket Lodge, set in the hotel’s woodland, is perfect for bridal preparations and includes a jacuzzi.

The dedicated wedding coordinator looks after intimate and grand weddings alike. I know the grounds here very, very well, which means portraits are always at their best, and there’s a real warmth to the place that couples always comment on.

Crow Wood Hotel & Spa

Crow Wood Hotel & Spa brings modern luxury to the Lancashire wedding scene. On the morning of the wedding there’s an on-site beauty parlour with sofas, Prosecco and salon chairs, which always makes for a fun, relaxed start to the day.

It’s within easy reach of the Ribble Valley, Blackburn, Preston and Pendle, and the team really know what they’re doing. My favourite spot: a secret pathway on the edge of the field with glorious backlight in the evening, when the sun falls across the summer house and lake. I’ve photographed a lot of weddings at Crow Wood and it’s always a great day.

Bookings for 2025 and onwards
Late availability options for weddings in 2024
Exclusive Wedding Fairs for couples to visualize and plan their special day.

Family-Run Favourites: Personal and Heartfelt Wedding Venues

Family-run venues have a warmth you can’t manufacture. Here are three that do it brilliantly: Stirk House, Beeston Manor and Ashfield House.

Stirk House

Stirk House is a 17th-century manor in 22 acres of grounds, family-run and multi-award-winning. The service is genuinely personal, and the setting above the Ribble Valley is gorgeous.

It’s a proudly inclusive venue where every couple is made to feel welcome, and the hospitality is as warm as the reviews suggest. I’ve photographed weddings here and it always feels like one big family celebration.

Beeston Manor

Beeston Manor is a family-run venue set in 140 acres near Preston. What you get:

Unique signature stonework
Exposed beams that contribute to a grand and rustic ambiance
A warm and welcoming atmosphere, evident through their exclusive use of 14 bedrooms
Blending the comfort of the manor house with the charm of a barn setup

The reputation is excellent, with awards and glowing reviews to match. Open days let you see the rooms dressed for a wedding and chat to the coordinators. I’ve shot here and the family atmosphere really does make the day.

Ashfield House

Ashfield House near Wigan blends traditional elegance with contemporary charm. It’s family-run with an exclusive, homely feel, and couples get real freedom to make the day their own.

The house is grand but welcoming, full of quirky details, and it was designed with weddings in mind: excellent in-house catering, 15 bedrooms and a shelf full of awards.

Handy for the M6, with virtual tours and open events if you want a look around. I’ve photographed weddings at Ashfield House and the team go out of their way for their couples.

Quirky and Unique: Unconventional Wedding Venues

Want a venue with real personality? Lancashire’s unconventional venues are brilliant fun. Here are three favourites.

The Wellbeing Farm, Hobbit Hill and The Out Barn. None of them are your average wedding venue, and that’s exactly the point.

Wellbeing Farm

The Wellbeing Farm sits in rolling countryside near Edgworth and does things its own way. The highlights:

Bow tie-wearing llamas
A Duckpin Bowling Alley
An on-site Brewery
The Bar & Grill

Yes, llamas in bow ties. The award-winning team specialise in keeping planning stress-free, and the day is always as fun as it sounds. I’ve photographed weddings here and the photos are always full of laughter.

Hobbit Hill

Hobbit Hill, in the hills above Clitheroe, offers glamping pods on site so your guests can stay over and the celebrations can last all weekend. The views over the Ribble Valley are stunning.

Couples can put real personality into the day here, themed touches and all, and the staff are known for their attentiveness. I’ve shot at Hobbit Hill and it’s one of the most relaxed, joyful venues I know.

The Out Barn

The Out Barn, near Clitheroe in the Ribble Valley, offers something unique: a beautifully converted barn with modern touches, high above the valley with views for miles.

What you get:

Seating capacity for 60 to 150 guests, with a 250-person capacity for evening receptions
Licensed for civil ceremonies with up to 150 guests
Two enchanting outdoor ceremony locations
In-house Sonos surround sound media system
Late-night license until 1 am
Bridal suite and bridal dressing room available

You can choose from a list of brilliant caterers, and there’s accommodation in The Old Dairy Cottage plus nearby places like Brockthorn and Clough Bottom Farmhouse for family and friends.

The setting and the service make The Out Barn a top choice. I’ve photographed weddings here and watching the sun go down over the valley with a drink in hand is hard to beat.

My Tips as a Lancashire Wedding Photographer

I’ve photographed countless weddings at Lancashire’s best venues, so here’s my honest advice: visit potential venues at the same time of year as your wedding so you can see the light for yourself, and ask what’s included before you fall in love with the look of a place.

Remember, your venue sets the tone for the whole day. It’s not just about how it looks; it’s the service, the comfort and how the place makes you feel. When you find the right one, you’ll know.

Summary

Lancashire is spoilt for stunning wedding venues, whatever your style: the grandeur of a manor house, the charm of a barn, an outdoor ceremony, boutique luxury, family-run warmth or something completely off the wall. If you’re still looking for a photographer who knows these venues inside out, I’d love to hear about your plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest day to book a wedding venue?

Weekdays like Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday are generally more affordable and easier to book than Saturdays, and a midweek date suits a smaller, more intimate celebration really well.

What is Andy Wade’s approach to wedding photography?

My approach is documentary: capturing genuine moments and real emotions as they happen, without posing or interrupting. You enjoy your day; I’ll be there quietly catching it all, with about 20 minutes of relaxed portraits thrown in.

What awards has Andy Wade received?

I’ve been fortunate to pick up over 40 awards in recent seasons, including 2nd in the UK and Ireland with the Masters of Wedding Photography and a top 10 place in the world with Photographers Keeping it Real. Lovely as that is, what matters most is what my couples say afterwards.

What are some of the top wedding venues in Lancashire, according to Andy Wade?

My personal favourites include Eaves Hall, Mitton Hall, Browsholme Hall and The Out Barn, but honestly the ‘best’ venue is the one that feels right for you. Go and stand in a few, and trust your gut.

Your questions, answered

I always tell couples to visit at the same time of year as their wedding date, so you see the light exactly as it’ll be on the day. It makes a real difference to how your photos turn out. Worth asking the venue for a look round at the right time of day too.

I know every pathway round the gardens there and exactly where the sun falls once the evening kicks in, so the portraits always come out lovely. The relaxed house-party feel once drinks start flowing helps too. It’s a venue I never get tired of.

The Whittaker Room dates back to the 15th century and was once a chapel, so it’s got real atmosphere for a ceremony. The team look after couples properly and the day always runs smoothly when I’ve shot there. It photographs beautifully.

Knowsley can take up to 132 guests in the Hall for the ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening party, with exclusive use of the grounds too. They host fewer weddings than most venues, so your day gets their full attention. I’ve shot there and the setting is something special.

You get exclusive use of the whole day and evening, so there’s no sharing your wedding with anyone else. The outdoor terrace with glass fencing gives uninterrupted views across the Lancashire countryside, which is a gift for photos. It suits weddings of pretty much any size.

It takes between 50 and 130 seated guests for the ceremony and wedding breakfast, and up to 200 for the evening do. That flexibility means it works whether you’re planning something intimate or a proper big celebration. Exclusive use means you can make the space entirely your own.